Getting Connected

Telephone & Internet:

Telecommunications within the UAE and outside world are generally good. All communication is provided by Etisalat. An application form is available at any Etisalat office and once submitted will take approximately 2 – 3 days for connection. Two of the largest Etisalat offices are Defence roundabout (Sheikh Zayed Road) and opposite creekside Sheraton Hotel, Deira. Documents required are:

Etisalat application form (in English).
Copy of passport & residence visa.
Letter of ‘no objection’ from employer.
Copy of Tenancy Agreement.
Dhs 250/-

For Internet access you can use your home or office internet account. Etisalat is the official Internet service provider and offer a roaming service. Alternatively you can dial straight in with a computer and your telephone by using the Dial N' Surf service. Please visit the following websites:

Emirates Internet Roaming Service www.emirates.net.ae/net_roaming.htm
Dial n’ Surf www.emirates.net.ae/dialnsurf.htm

Electricity & Water:

The electricity supply in Dubai is 220/240 volts and 50 cycles. Standard British plugs are used. US appliances will require an adaptor. The Dubai Electricity & Water (DEWA) office is located close to the Wafi shopping mall (Tel. +971-4-3244444).

To install water and electricity at your property, you need to take a copy of your lease agreement and your DEWA Account number (which is usually on a small plaque outside the villa/apartment – and will be supplied by your leasing agent), along with a deposit, which is refundable when you leave the property. The deposit for apartments is Dhs 1,000/- and for villas is Dhs 2,000/-.

TV & Satellite:

Local television offers three Arabic channels and one English channel (Dubai 33). There are a wide variety of satellite packages available. Most apartment buildings have dishes installed, leaving the Tenants to acquire their own decoder (which can be leased or purchased from satellite dealers). Villa residents will usually need to install their own dish.